Temptalia's Beauty Secrets

After studying economics and political science at the University of California at Irvine, 25-year-old Christine Mielke decided to follow her passion and began a blog for the beauty obsessed. "I adore makeup, and I wanted a space to share my favorite looks and products," says Christine, who came up with the name Temptalia to describe the perfect woman. “She's smart, sexy, and confident,” says Christine. The site delivers the latest product information, tutorials, in-depth product reviews, and the hugely popular Foundation Matrix, Dupe List, and extensive Swatch Gallery. We sat down with this talented entrepreneur to chat about her must-have products, favorite makeup tricks and tips, and what she'll be giving for Christmas this year.

Q & A: Christine Mielke from Temptalia

Q: Working on Temptalia sounds like a dream job! What do you love most about it?

Interacting with readers—who are all fellow beauty enthusiasts! I get to talk, live, and breathe beauty and makeup all day, every day, with people from around the world.

Q: You test so many products on a daily basis. What makes the cut into your everyday routine?

My skin care routine changes all the time because I switch out a product every four to six weeks, depending on what I’m testing. I use a moisturizer with SPF and a gentle cleanser in the morning, and at night, I use makeup remover or a regular cleanser, toner, and evening cream. Some of my favorites are Kiehl’s Rare Earth Cleanser, Kate Somerville Gentle Cleanser, Bare Escentuals Purifying Facial Cleanser, Clinique Moisture Surge, Osmotics Cream Extreme, Shiseido Ultimate Sun SPF 55, Bare Escentuals Purely Nourishing Cream, Nars Hydrating Toner, Renee Rouleau Elderberry Toner, and Shu Uemura cleansing oil.

Q: Is there one item you just can’t live without?

Chanel Dragon Rouge Allure Laque. It’s the perfect red lip color for me.

Q: And what are a few of your favorite manicure shades?

I love antique golds and pewters, metallics, emerald greens, turquoises, and of course, ruby reds.

Q: How about fragrance? Do you have a signature scent?

Tom Ford Oud Wood Eau de Parfum. It’s a heady and intoxicating scent that clings to my skin and resonates with me.

Q: If you were stuck on an island and could have only one product, what would it be?

Guerlain Illuminating & Mattifying Pressed Powder. It’s an allover powder that’s barely there and nearly translucent, but it adds that je ne sais quoi to the face that always has readers asking, “What foundation are you wearing?”

Q: Guerlain has such beautiful products. Do you think they’re worth the splurge?

I’m definitely curious to see if Guerlain’s Noir G de Guerlain Mascara works well enough to justify the $49 price tag.

Q: Yes, $49 seems like a lot to spend on mascara. Is Noir G on your holiday wish list?

Surprisingly, I specifically tell people not to buy me anything beauty related! I can be picky and I have no patience, so I can’t wait until Christmas to receive something!

Q: How about gifting beauty products? Are you planning to give out beauty presents this year?

My favorite people will get Chanel Dragon Rouge Allure Laque because it’s my must-have red and was recently discontinued. I also like to pick up various kits and then split them up. You can combine several sets together and create your own unique, custom gifts to give to friends and family. You can also save a bundle this way!

Q: Do you have any makeup tips for our Beauties?

You can wear any color you want—it’s all about having the confidence to do it and knowing what to complement it with! Also, dampen your brush before applying foundation for a softer, more natural finish. You’ll never feel like you’ve overdone it.